Bora Bora is a magical gem in the South Pacific, the jewels of the seas, and a location more beautiful than anywhere else in the world. It’s a place not everybody gets the chance to experience, being set in the ocean worlds away, but those who do get the chance to experience its wonder are never disappointed.
Famous for its overwater bungalows, jaw-dropping coastline, and unspoiled nature, Bora Bora is an exotic island secluded in paradise. The island’s volcanic past left the dramatic peak of Mt. Otemanu, supplying a gorgeous scenic backdrop, and a string of a little island in a turquoise lagoon. It is home to some of the most luxurious and over-the-top resorts in the world, having the best of both worlds, with natural and man-made luxury wrapped all into one. Experiences on the island are unlike anywhere else on earth, as you can step right outside your door and swim with stingrays, hike a volcano, snorkel the reefs, and relax in a tropical oasis surrounded by sunshine.
If you have never been to Bora Bora before, get ready for a trip of a lifetime. To help make your itinerary planning easier, and help guide you on your journey, I have compiled all the best tips and tricks. Keep scrolling for the first-timer guide to Bora Bora, for what to expect, things to do, and how to have a stress-free trip to a tropical paradise on earth.
Why Visit Bora Bora?
The French Polynesian island is without a doubt the most celebrated island in the South Pacific. The beauty alone is what draws thousands of visitors each year, in addition to its gorgeous beaches stunning mountains backdrop, dazzling blue waters, and relaxation all around. It is a honeymooners paradise, and one of the most romantic places in the world. It’s a beach lover’s dream, a sunny tropical paradise, an adventurers hotspot, and a perfect place for those looking to relax and lounge in luxury.
Tips for Visiting Bora Bora
It’s best to do a little research before your trip to make everything s convenient and stress-free as possible. Knowing what to expect before you arrive can save a lot of time and money in the long run. Here are some basic tips about how to plan your trip, and what to expect on the island, such as:
When to visit: The best time to visit Bora Bora depends on preference. To avoid the crowds and humid temperatures, visit during the should season in November-April. To avoid the rain and have hot sunny skies the majority of the time, visit during May-October, but expect higher crowds and increased tourist prices.
Weather: Bora Bora has warm and tropical weather all year long, with a rainy season and a dry season. The rainy season lasts from November-April but brings beautiful rainbows almost every day. The dry season is from May-October, with temperatures being their yearly highest. The average temperature in Bora Bora ranges from 70-85 degrees Fahrenheit.
How to get around: Bora Bora is only 6 miles long, making getting around the island easy and stress-free. There are multiple options for transportation, including scooters, bicycles, taxis, boats, and by foot.
Rental scooters and ATVs are by far the most popular, are affordable, and allow access to most parts of the island. Keep in mind, as the island is small, it can easily be explored in a day, so there is no need to have a rental for the entirety of the trip. Taxis are available, but, they are limited in number and are typically the most expensive option.
To get to and from the airport, there is a ferry shuttle coinciding with flights each day. If you are staying at a resort or hotel, it is likely your accommodation will also provide personal ferry transport at well.
Languages Spoken: French and Tahitian are the 2 official languages of the French Polynesian island of Bora Bora, however, English is widely spoken as well. The majority of visitors to the islands are American, European, and Japanese, making most locals and residents have a strong understanding of English.
Currency Used: All islands in the French Polynesia, including Bora Bora, use the French Pacific Franc ( XPF or CFP). The United States Dollar and European Euro are widely accepted around the island, however, you will receive a change in the local currency which typically is a much worse exchange rate.
ATMs are located in various places around the island, and VISA and Mastercards are widely accepted; getting cash when needed is a rather simple process.
Things to do in Bora Bora
Bora Bora is a stunning place in the middle of the ocean. Surrounded by crystal blue waters and a jaw-dropping coastline. Besides lounging around in paradise and taking in the view, there are loads of unique things to do and experience on the island, such as:
Snorkel with Sharks: Going snorkeling with sharks is one of the most adrenaline-filled experiences in Bora Bora. Shrivers of the Black Tipped Reefs Sharks, are all around the area, and observing them in their natural habitat is truly a sight to see. We joined Lagoon Service Bora Bora for a day trip and we had the most amazing time swimming with sharks and stingrays, eating local Tahitian food, and learning more about the Tahitian culture. I highly recommend booking through them.
Bicycle around Bora Bora: Riding a bicycle around the island is a great way to explore the beauty at your own pace. As the island is only 6 miles, it’s easy to navigate on two wheels. Roads are paved and the island is mostly flat, making it great for cyclists of all strengths.
Hike up Mount Pahia: The hike up Mount Pahia is one of the most adventurous Bora Bora experiences. The view at the top is worth all the struggle and time it takes to get there. While it can be done on your own, if you aren’t an experienced hiker, it is recommended to have a guide for safety purposes, as the hike isn’t easy. Guides are available to help make your way to the top, through thick jungle, and up and down various steep sections. Allow around 6-8 hours round trip.
Relax on the Beach: Matira Beach is the most popular beach in Bora Bora, and probably where guests spend most of their time. With white sands and sparkling lagoon waters, towering palm trees, and colorful reefs out from shore, it’s easily a heaven on earth.
Shop for Black Pearls: Black pearls are cultivated by many farmers in French Polynesia and hunting these gems area a popular sport among tourists. There are various shops around Vaitape where you can find exquisite jewelry, or small pearl trinkets to take home as a souvenir.
Stay in an overwater Bungalow: Even if it’s not for the entirety of your trip, try to experience staying in an overwater bungalow at least once. It’s one of the things that makes the island so famous. Wake up to stunning ocean views, and have waves and bursts of sunshine at the tips of your fingertips. We had the pleasure of staying at Four Seasons Bora Bora and St Regis Bora Bora and I can definitely guarantee that it’s worth it!
Is Bora Bora Safe?
Bora Bora is one of the world’s safest holiday destinations. Despite its far-off location, it attracts thousands of people each year, for its sandy beaches, dazzling coastal waters, and peace and relaxation. It can be easy to forget about safety concerns in a place so beautiful, luckily, Bora Bora doesn’t pose many threats.
The island of Bora Bora has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. That being said, there are a few things to be aware of. Just like anywhere else in the world, petty theft does happen but can be easily avoided by using common sense and traveling smart. Additionally, while very rare, the island is at risk for tsunamis and tropical storms during the rainy season of November-April.
Bora Bora in the French Polynesia is undoubtedly the trip of a lifetime! I hope that you have enjoyed this beginner’s guide to Bora Bora, and hope that it has inspired you to visit the magical island for yourself.
xo,
Cherrie
